1973 | Volkswagen T2b Westfalia

Highlights:

• Original Westfalia SO73 “MALAGA”
• Unique condition
• Family owned time capsule

Brand & model history

The VW T2 "Bulli" (1967 - 1979), also known under the factory code Type 2 Transporter 2, marks the second generation of the popular transporter. From 1967, the T2a presented itself with several improvements: It was larger, had larger window areas and a one-piece windshield. Equipped as standard with a sliding door and a significantly optimized chassis, which now had a ball joint front axle and a semi-trailing arm rear axle, the T2a offered improved stability. The rear wheels maintained a slightly negative camber in all driving conditions, which increased driving safety.

The air-cooled boxer engine installed in the rear now required less space, which increased the cargo space. Over the years, the van continued to grow in size and power, with engine power increasing to up to 70 hp. An automatic transmission was also available as an option for the first time. The T2a was equipped with important safety features that made it exceptionally safe compared to American vehicle standards. For example, all seats could be fitted with lap belts, and the driver and outer seats in the passenger compartment were optionally fitted with shoulder or combination belts, as the first owner's manual from 1967 emphasized. The T2 was characterized by its advanced technology and safety features that clearly set it apart from other commercial vehicles of its time. It functioned not only as a van, but also as a spacious MPV. These more finely equipped bus variants were therefore called "Clipper". A press release from Volkswagen aptly stated: "New Volkswagen Transporter - like a car." Together with Westfalia and other suppliers, Volkswagen also succeeded in realizing the dream of an affordable camper van. The T2 could be purchased as a turnkey camper or converted into a mobile home using kits, making it the ideal "one-room apartment on four wheels".

Condition:

The VW T2b Westfalia SO73 offered here has the so-called "Malaga" camping equipment variant. Alongside "Düsseldorf" and "Offenbach", this was one of the three variants of the SO73 series. We have uploaded an old catalog as a PDF in the advert. The "Malaga" equipment is one of the rarest. The Westfalia, built in December 1973, was sent directly to America. In exactly this color combination with L90D pastel white and fabric in camping green. The first owner was the US ambassador to Bolivia. He bought the car new from the VW dealer in Texas and then drove along the Pan-American Highway to La Paz, Bolivia. The father of the current owner was good friends with the ambassador and bought the car directly from him. The rare camper was in the family from 1982 to the present day and came to Germany in 2024 where it was registered. The car can be described with a clear conscience as a time capsule. Such impeccable camping equipment is rare to find. According to the owner, everything is fully functional. The car is unwelded and accident-free. Market classification: The T2b Westfalia is still a cult vehicle and a milestone in the history of camping vehicles. The well thought-out design and functionality made it one of the most successful and popular recreational vehicles of its time. Nowadays, good examples are becoming increasingly rare and market prices have been rising for years, sometimes over 70,000 EUR.

Summary:

This 1973 VW T2b Westfalia “Malaga” is a rare find. The special color combination, the extremely well-preserved general condition, the rare Westfalia SO73 equipment and the easily traceable history make this camper something very special. For VW collectors and enthusiasts.